New York State Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner Jeanette Moy today announced the popular and free summer tours of the Empire State Plaza and outdoor sculptures have returned. July 7 will mark the return of “Ride the Plaza” tours that showcase the Empire State Plaza from the comfort of a specially wrapped, air-conditioned, and accessible CDTA trolley.

“Tours of the Empire State Plaza and New York State Capitol bring these unique architectural masterpieces, their fascinating histories, and world-class artwork to life,” Commissioner Moy said, “Adding to the excitement of OGS’s Summer at the Plaza series of concerts and festivals, our tours are another great way to spend some time this summer, and we encourage everyone to take advantage of these free activities. Thanks to our partner CDTA, the trolley tours will continue to help make the Plaza more accessible and enjoyable for our visitors.”

The Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza is at the center of one of the most spectacular capitals in the world: a 98 1/2-acre city-within-a-city that includes one of the greatest public collections of modern art in the country, the State Museum, and a unique performing arts center, The Egg.

“Ride the Plaza!” – Trolley Tour

Visitors can relax and enjoy learning about local landmarks, architecture, art, memorials, and history.  The trolley is fully accessible and can accommodate up to 22 passengers.

• Where:Board the trolley on Madison Avenue, near the New York State Museum entrance. The trolley will return to the same location at the end of the tour.
• When:Fridays, July 7 to September 1 at 1, 2, and 3 p.m. Tours last approximately 45 minutes.
• Reservations: Seating is limited, so reservations are required and can be made at empirestateplaza.ny.gov. 

“We are looking forward to another full and successful season with the ‘Ride the Plaza’ historic tours,” said CDTA CEO Carm Basile. “Creating opportunity and access for the people of the Capital Region is at the core of who CDTA is. We are pleased to partner with OGS and Commissioner Moy to welcome people on board to experience all of the rich history and culture the Capital Region has to offer.”

Empire State Plaza Tours

On this outdoor walking tour, discover this world-class complex. Learn how government and culture are housed within the modern architecture of the Empire State Plaza, including the Plaza’s memorials. Learn about The Egg and receive an overview of the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza Art Collection. In addition, Wednesdays on the Plaza also include a lunchtime farmers market, food trucks, and live music.

• Where: Tours begin on the Plaza near the base of The Egg.
• When:Monday to Thursday, at 1 p.m. July 5 through August 31. Tours are approximately 45 minutes.
• Reservations: Reservations are recommended but not required and can be made at empirestateplaza.ny.gov. Groups of 10 or more should call (518) 474-2418. 

Tour the New York State Capitol

Sitting atop Albany’s State Street hill, the New York State Capitol has served as the seat of government for New York since the 1880s. The building is a marvel of late 19th century architectural grandeur, built by hand of solid masonry over a period of 32 years. Highlights of the 45-minute tours can include the legislative chambers, Hall of Governors, Governor’s Reception Room, Hall of New York, historic staircases, and carvings.

• Where:State Street Lobby visitor information desk
• When:Monday to Friday at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m.
• Reservations:Space is limited, and reservations are recommended but not required and can be made online at empirestateplaza.ny.gov. Call (518) 474-2418 for groups of 10 or more. Online registration ends one hour before tour time. Walk-ups are permitted.
• Security: Visitors to the Capitol are required to pass through metal detectors and have bags scanned through an X-ray machine. Personal belongings such as backpacks and large bags should be left behind. Sharp objects, such as pocket knives, nail clippers, weapons, and nuisance devices, such as whistles and noisemakers, are not allowed in the building.